Judy Thorburn | Editor in Chief | Writer | ColumnistJudy Thorburn's 'Vegas Happenings' column

By Judy Thorburn This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Owner/Editor in Chief/writer - Las Vegas Round The Clock

Owner/Editor in Chief/writer - The Flick Chicks
Director of Communications - Nevada Film Alliance
http://www.theflickchicks.com

Borracha Mexican Cantina and Bottiglia Cucina & Enoteca Open in Green Valley Ranch Resort

Two new restaurants recently opened inside Green Valley Ranch Resort in Henderson. The first, Borracha Mexican Cantina, is a lively and spicy Spanish restaurant featuring a themed décor that pays homage to the dead.  Festival skulls watch over guests while a hand-painted floor, dark wooden beams and a wraparound graffiti mural by famed Mexican artist Oscar Flores brings life to the space.

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Borracha Mexican Cantina
Photo courtesy of Borracha Mexican Cantina

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Borracha Mexican Cantina interior
Photo courtesy of Borracha Mexican Cantina

The bold and diverse menu, created by Chef Jesus "Chuy" Villegas, offers up dishes that are both universal and unconventional.  Guests have the option of shareable plates and imaginative burritos as well as a selection of inviting and mouthwatering entrees. As with any Mexican restaurant worth its salt, the tacos at Borracha captivate palates with handmade tortillas and meats that range from rotisserie chicken, slow-cooked short ribs and fresh Baja fish.  To accommodate those who don't eat meat or are vegan and/or gluten-free, such as yours truly, I am pleased to report that options are also available. For starters, meatless, gluten free appetizers include crunchy tostadas filled with black beans, sweet corn and poblano crème or mini crab ceviche tacos made with king crab, picked cucumbers and ceviche sauce that are to die for.

borracha taco salad
Taco Salad
Photo courtesy of Borracha Mexican Cantina

borracha carnitas
Borracha Carnitas
Photo courtesy of Borracha Mexican Cantina

borracha shrimp dish
Borracha Shrimp Dish
Photo courtesy of Borracha Mexican Cantina

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Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

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Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

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Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

Every Tuesday, Borracha offers an all-you-can-eat-and-drink tacos and tequila promotion for $24 starting at 4pm.  Borracha will also have daily happy hour promotions from 4pm - 6pm offering guests to try out some the restaurant's greatest hits each priced at $6 each.

borracha pinapple cocktail
Borracha Pineapple Cocktail
Photo courtesy of Borracha Mexican Cantina

borracha skeleton cocktail
Borracha Skeleton Cocktail
Photo courtesy of Borracha Mexican Cantina

borracha strawberry cocktail
Borracha Strawberry Cocktail
Photo courtesy of Borracha Mexican Cantina

The other new restaurant, Bottiglia by highly acclaimed chef Brian Massie, perfects the refined Italian cuisine commonly found on Italy's Amalfi and Apulia coasts. Careful techniques are used in the kitchen while preparing the savory dishes, from crisp salads and antipastas, to fresh seafood and open-range meats. Tuscan-style food such as house-made pastas are prepared with an elegant touch, including the house speciality of Papperdella Bolognese, a mouthwatering marriage of braised short ribs, truffle ricotta and piquillo pepper gravy. The Chef will also do his best to accommodate those with dietary restrictions including the aforementioned vegetarians and gluten free diners.

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Bottiglia
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

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Bottiglia interior
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

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Bottiglia interior counter
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

A large wine selection includes multiple varieties from many of Italy's celebrated wine regions as well as wines from Napa/Sonoma, Northern and Southern Rhone and other notable growing locations. There is also a full bar available offering specialty cocktails and craft beers.

Bottiglia Cocktail 1 Anthony Mair
Bottiglia Cocktail
Photo courtesy of Bottiglia

Bottiglia Cocktail 3 Anthony Mair
Bottiglia Cocktail
Photo courtesy of Bottiglia

Bottiglia Cocktail 4 Anthony Mair
Bottiglia Cocktail
Photo courtesy of Bottiglia

A weeknight happy hour from 4 pm to 6 pm features many Italian staples, from wood roasted eggplant and classic fontina arancini, to a Caprese salad using the finest Buratta and ripe tomatoes, with each item priced at $6 and the menu will be available throughout the entire restaurant. In addition, a Sunday brunch was launched on May 15, that features classic Italian breakfast and lunch options done with innovated twists, while still staying true to the original recipes.

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Bottiglia bread plate
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

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Bottiglia
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

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Bottiglia
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

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Bottiglia
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

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Bottiglia
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

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Bottiglia
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

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Bottiglia
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

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Bottiglia
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

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Bottiglia
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

 

Upon enterig Bottiglia Cuchina and Enoteca you can't help but notice the airy, welcome environment that is bright, lively and as fresh as the cuisine. A shaded oversized patio capable of seating 80 guests wraps around the outside of the restaurant, offering an equally engaging experience. A meticulously-decorated private dining room that seats up to 24 diners, also has access to the spacious patio, while a soothing outdoor fire pit helps to create a serene spirit and unrivaled atmosphere that overlooks the calm Las Vegas desert.

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Bottiglia
Photo credit: Stephen Thorburn

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Bottiglia Eggplant Jar
Photo courtesy of Bottiglia

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Bottiglia Pasta
Photo courtesy of Bottiglia

bottiglia tomato salad
Bottiglia Tomato Salad
Photo courtesy of Bottiglia

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Bottiglia Seafood Cocktail
Photo courtesy of Bottiglia

"Not everybody can go to Italy and try the world-class food, so we're bringing that world-class food here,"  said, Andy Masi, founder of Clique, a boutique Hhospitality company that specializes in upscale comfortable dining that sets trends rather than follow them. "Italians take pride in their food, their wine and their family. We can provide two of those things. “

During my visit to both Barracha and Bottiglia, where I experienced the great ambiance, service, and delectable food offerings, I can honestly attest that Clique delivered the goods and then some.

Additional recent and upcoming “happenings” in and around Las Vegas include:

SEASONS MARKET recently opened in MonteLago Village at Lake Las Vegas.  The store features traditional and organic items, including many award-winning products and some exclusive to Lake Las Vegas from Full Circle and other local and regional growers and companies. There will also be daily product and wine tastings and dry cleaning and grocery delivery services.

According to a study conducted by the personal-finance website WalletHub, LAS VEGAS is ranked 2016’s 5th BEST CITY FOR RECREATION. To highlight the relative benefit of public spaces and recreational activities for consumers and economies across the country, WalletHub compared the 100 largest U.S. cities across 35 key metrics, ranging from parkland acreage to the cost of movie tickets.

DAVE & BUSTER'S, the ultimate entertainment destination, is bringing its first-ever Nevada location to Las Vegas, joining the growing roster of retail, dining and entertainment options available at Downtown Summerlin® this August. As Dave & Buster's gears up to open its doors, they are seeking energetic, dynamic and friendly team members to fill approximately 260 positions. Available positions include servers, bartenders, hosts, and service support roles.Interested candidates should complete an online application at www.daveandbusters.com/careers, or visit the Dave & Buster's hiring site.  Location: Downtown Summerlin (2130 Park Centre Dr., Las Vegas, NV. 89135). The hiring site for Dave & Buster’s will be located above the Apple store on Festive Plaza Drive.

On Saturday, July 2, Aerosmith lead singer STEVEN TYLER kicked off his highly anticipated Out On A Limb solo tour to a sold out crowd at The Venetian Theatre inside The Venetian® Las Vegas.

Andrew Mactaggart Steven Tyler and Suzie McNeil at The Venetian Las Vegas
Andrew Mactaggart, Steven Tyler, and Suzie McNeil at The Venetian Las Vegas
Photo courtesy of The Venetian Las Vegas

Marti Frederiksen and Steven Tyler at The Venetian Las Vegas
Marti Frederiksen and Steven Tyler at The Venetian Las Vegas
Photo courtesy of The Venetian Las Vegas

Steven Tyler and Suzie McNeil at The Venetian Las Vegas
Steven Tyler and Suzie McNeil at The Venetian Las Vegas
Photo courtesy of The Venetian Las Vegas

Steven Tyler Out On A Limb tour kicks off at The Venetian Las Vegas 7
Steven Tyler
Photo courtesy of The Venetian Las Vegas

After only 5 weeks and 28 performances, I am saddened to report that multi-talented entertainer FRANKIE MORENO'S SHOW “UNDER THE INFLUENCE”, has closed inside the PH Showroom at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. The final performance was on Saturday, July 2.

CINDY WILLIAMS, best known for her role as Shirley Feeney in the comedy series “Laverne & Shirley,” will join the cast of“MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL®” at Harrah’s as a guest star from July 7-Aug. 28. The longest-running scripted musical in Las Vegas history has played 4,200 performances and just celebrated 10 years here.While Williams is making her Las Vegas debut, this run marks the third time she will perform in “Menopause The Musical®,” having previously appeared in the Tampa, Fla., and Laguna Beach, Calif., productions. The actress will play the role of the fifth girlfriend, joining current cast members. After each performance, Williams will greet fans and sign copies of her memoir, “Shirley, I Jest!” Performances are Monday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m., and 4 p.m. each Saturday and Monday. Tickets are $49.99, $59.99 and $74.50.

THE MOB MUSEUM once again will be hosting a SUMMER MOVIE SERIES on four consecutive Fridays in July at 6:45 p.m. in the historic courtroom. Each screening will be preceded by a short presentation providing historical context as well as the real stories behind the film. Movies will include: “Bugsy” on July 8; “The Untouchables” on  July 15; “The St. Valentine’s Day Massacre” on  July 22; and “Hoffa” on July 29. Each movie is FREE with museum admission and FREE for museum members.  Refreshments include a full bar and snacks available for purchase. Attendees may also opt for dinner-and-a-movie night by purchasing The Made Experience package offered in partnership with Triple George Grill located at 201 N. Third Street, just steps away from the museum. The $89 package includes a three-course dinner, private booth, Triple George Grill cocktail shaker and a ticket to the museum.

Speaking of TRIPLE GEORGE, throughout July the acclaimed, award-winning restaurant will celebrate 11 years of serving exceptional dining experiences in Downtown Las Vegas with month long food and drink specials. Recognized for its power lunch specials, happy hour offerings and classic cuisine, Triple George Grill was one of the first independent eateries to emerge in the beginning years of the revitalization of downtown Las Vegas, paving the way for what is now a thriving and eclectic urban dining scene.

BeMyDD (BE MY DESIGNATED DRIVER), the nation’s largest designated driver service, announced it will be offering free designated drivers to residents of Las Vegas on Saturday, July 9th to get them and their cars home safely.The 24-City Designated Driver Tour, presented by BeMyDD and program partners Jack Daniel’s Gentleman Jack Whiskey and Total Wine & More, provides free drivers to take both the customer and his/her car home safely. During the event, customers can request a car pickup at no charge from any location within a 50-mile radius from the city center with the BeMyDD smartphone app, available for iOS and Android devices. A team of drivers will arrive at the customer’s location, one to drive the customer and their car home safely, and the other to retrieve the driver afterwards.Las Vegas residents can learn more about the program, see the other cities on the tour schedule, and read instructions for receiving free car pickup on July 9th by visiting www.BeMyDD.com/DDTour.

Free pickup service will be available between the hours of 9 p.m. and 2 a.m. on the specified date and will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis. As an added bonus, new customers anywhere in the country can get $20 off their first ride on any day by using promo code DDTOUR through the BeMyDD mobile app.

Britain's living legends of comedy, John Cleese and Eric Idle, announce their must-see show JOHN CLEESE & ERIC IDLE: TOGETHER AGAIN AT LAST...FOR THE VERY FIRST TIME in Las Vegas at The Venetian at Theatre inside The Venetian® Las Vegas on Nov.18 and 19 at 8 p.m. Tickets starting at $49.95 (plus applicable fees)are now on sale at any box office at The Venetian or The Palazzo.

'IMAGES OF THE KING’ Las Vegas Elvis Festival that brings some of the best Elvis Presley tribute artists together to honor the music, life and legacy of “The King” will be held at Sam’s Town Live! July 14-17. Each night will present a different era in The King’s storied career. In addition, a tribute artist contest will be held July 15 - 17, with the top artist taking home a grand prize of $5,000. “After-hours” free entertainment will be offered at Roxy’s Lounge immediately following the conclusion of each night’s events.Weekend passes are available starting at $131. Single-event tickets are also available. Tickets can be purchased at any Boyd Gaming Box Office.

Legendary award winning singer/songwriter JUDY COLLINS will perform in the Chrome Showroom at Santa Fe Station on Friday, July 15, 2016 at 7 p.m. Ticket Prices are $27.50, $38.50 and $49.50 plus tax and applicable fees for reserved seating.This is an all-ages show; those under 21 must be accompanied by an adult.

THE NAUGHTY SHOW, made famous at The Comedy Store in Hollywood, kicks off a summer of weekend shows at The Sin City Theatre inside Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino starting July 15, 2016. Featuring creator and host Sam Tripoli, the 80-minute riotous comedy show finds its roots in classic sharp-witted and quick-thinking comedic talents like Don Rickles with a little touch of ”The Gong Show.” Performances will run Friday and Saturday Nights at 11 p.m. Tickets will be available at any Caesars Entertainment Box Office.

Singer/showman extraordinaire, CLINT HOLMES will debut his new show “BETWEEN THE LINES" in the newly redesigned Palazzo Theatre on July 16. The show, which will run Tuesday through Saturday at 10 p.m., is a culmination of all the artist has gleaned throughout his impressive career.  His objective was to create a show that "connects with the soul of the audience," regardless of age or musical preference and he promises to deliver a personal, melodic journey of contemporary hits and traditional standards, as well as original music he wrote. Holmes will be backed by a live seven-piece band including pianist and musical director Christian Tamburr, guitarist John Wedemeyer, saxophonist Rocco Barbato, drummer and percussionist Jakubu Griffin, bassistDave Ostrem, keyboardist and vocalist Jamie Hosmer. Tickets start at $42.65 (with tax and fees included) and can be purchased at any box office at The Venetian or The Palazzo,

ARRIVAL FROM SWEDEN: THE MUSIC OF ABBA” brings the iconic pop songs of the Swedish sensations to the Suncoast Showroom July 16 and 17.Showtime is 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available from $24 plus tax and fees and can be purchased at any Boyd Gaming Box Office.

Red Mercury Entertainment Latín Events present BANDA DEL RECODO, LA SEPTIMA BANDA, CUMBRE NORTENA, BRIO NORTENO, CHRISTIAN NAVA, SAMUEL AGUIRRE AND EQUIPO IMPERIAL performing live at Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino Event Center, Saturday, July 16. Pre-sale tickets are available in-person Monday, June 6 and Tuesday, June 7 at La Bonita and Mariana’s Supermarkets for general admission seating starting at $45 including taxes and fees. Doors open at 7 p.m. with live performances starting at 8 p.m. inside the Westgate Event Center. Ages 18 and over only.

Tickets are now on sale for Las Vegas’ largest fall craft beer event, DOWNTOWN BREW FESTIVAL, hosted by Motley Brews. Craft beer enthusiasts from all over to take part in the fifth anniversary of DBF while enjoying an evening beneath the Las Vegas sky with great brews and delicious fare at the CLARK COUNTY AMPHIPHEATER on Saturday, Oct. 22 from 5 to 9 p.m., with doors opening at 4 p.m. for VIP and Early Entry ticket holders. Expanding on the traditional craft beer festival, guests will have the opportunity to further explore the versatility of craft beer flavors through amazing dishes created by local chefs and restaurants featured in the Festaurant Row. In addition, beer lovers will have the opportunity to sample over 200 local, regional, and international brews from more than 60 breweries lining the rings of the grassy amphitheater.General Admission price is $35* and up. Early Entry:$45* and up. VIP Pavilion: $70* and up.  *Fees/taxes apply. Ticket pricing will change closer to the event date. Above ticket prices will be available until Friday, Sept.16.

Singer, film and Broadway star PIA ZADORA is taking a break from her residency at “Pia’s Place” inside Piero’s Italian Cuisine this summer to travel and spend time with her family. Zadora will return to Piero’s on Friday, August 26, 2016.

Celebrity sightings:

Monday, July 4...

Recording artist Post Malone celebrated his 21st birthday at Marquee in The Cosmopolitan. The artist kicked off his birthday at the dayclub before continuing the celebrations later at the nightclub where he took to the stage with a blowout out performance.

 Post Malone at Marquee 7.4 Performace
Post Malone at Marquee
Photo credit: Al Powers

Over at LAVO Italian Restaurant in The Palazzo, NBA star Julius Randle was spotted enjoying dinner with friends and family.

Actor and comedian Kevin Hart was spotted celebrating Independence Day at JEWEL Nightclub inside ARIA Resort & Casino.  Tthe “Ride Along” actor made one last stop at Vegas’ newest nightclub to close out the holiday weekend with JEWEL resident DJ, Steve Aoki.

JEWEL Kevin Hart Photo Credit Tony Tran 1
Kevin Hart and Steve Aoli
Photo credit: Tony Tran

Sunday night, July 3...

Khloe Kardashian and Trey Songz got cozy at Topgolf Las Vegas, hanging out in the venue’s challenge bays – right in heart of the 4th floor for all to see.

Saturday, July 2...

Actor and comedian Kevin Hart was spotted at 1 OAK Nightclub inside The Mirage Hotel & Casino. There to celebrate his 37th birthday and bachelor party, the “Central Intelligence” star arrived to the Vegas hotspot around 2 a.m. with a large group of friends including actor Damien Wayans.

1 OAK Kevin Hart Photo Credit Tony Tran Photography 3
Kevin Hart at 1OAK
Photo credit: Tony Tran

Friday, July 1...

In the afternoon, Sports Illustrated cover model Ashley Graham was spotted at Marquee Dayclub in The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas at a cabana with a friend. That night, Graham and her friend enjoyed dinner at the all-new Beauty & Essex before heading to Marquee Nightclub where they took in the night from a VIP table.

YouTube stars Arden Rose and Andrea Russett celebrated their belated 21st birthdays, beginning with dinner at TAO in The Venetian where Rose tweeted “Thanks to @taolasvegas for giving us the best birthday dinner EVER.” After dinner, the social media mavens headed to Marquee Nightclub with a group of friends where they were surprised with an over-the-top birthday presentation.

Thursday, June 30...

Social media star Christian Delgrosso spent the afternoon at Marquee Dayclub in The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. Joined by friends, the group enjoyed the day from a grand cabana before heading to TAO for dinner later that night.

At TAO Nightclub in The Venetian rapper Kid Ink took over Worship Thursday with a blowout performance for club-goers.

Kid Ink Performance at TAO 6.30
Kid Ink performing at TAO
Photo credit: Tony Tran

Legendary rock star Steven Tyler spent a fun-filled evening at The Beatles™ LOVE™ by Cirque du Soleil®, with friends and family on the night of its official anniversary. Following the show, he took photos with his favorite characters from the cast and with the show’s music director, Giles Martin, son of the late Sir George Martin.

 

Wednesday, June 29...

Seattle Seahawk’s cornerback Richard Sherman was spotted at 1 OAK Nightclub inside The Mirage Hotel & Casino.

1 OAK Richard Sherman Photo Credit Tony Tran Photography 3Richard Sherman at 1 OAK
Photo credit: Tony Tran Photography

Saturday, June 25...

GRAMMY Award-winning singer, songwriter and producer Mariah Carey took over the turntables at 1 OAK Nightclub inside The Mirage Hotel & Casino for her debut DJ set.
 
Once inside, Carey and her guests got settled at a VIP table  located behind the DJ booth while DJ Gusto jumped on the mic to greet the record-breaking songstress. Kicking off her first ever DJ set, the crowd went crazy as she and DJ Suss-One played a mix of Carey’s chart-topping hits.


Friday, June 24...

GRAMMY-Award winner and Hakkasan resident DJ, Tiësto, and newly drafted Los Angeles Rams quarterback Jared Goff joined JEWEL residents, The Chainsmokers, in the DJ Booth for their headlining set at JEWEL Nightclub at ARIA Resort & Casino.

JEWEL The Chainsmokers Tiesto Jared Goff Photo Credit Tony Tran
The Chainsmokers, Tiesto, Jared Goff
Photo credit: Tony Tran

Meanwhile at his VIP table located on the dance floor, “The Maze Runner” star Dexter Darden was spotted celebrating his 25th birthday with friend and the Detroit Pistons’ Andre Drummond among others.  The group was seen in high spirits, dancing and celebrating inside the packed room before they took the party over to Hakkasan Las Vegas’ Ling Ling Club to continue the birthday celebration.

JEWEL Dexter Darden and Andre Drummond Photo Credit Tony Tran
Dexter Darden and Andre Drummond at JEWEL
Photo credit: Tony Tran

JEWEL Dexter Darden Photo Credit Tony Tran
Dexter Darden at JEWEL
Photo credit: Tony Tran

Adding to the excitement of the night, British pop star Jay Sean also started his night at JEWEL and made his way to Hakkasan Nightclub where he joined resident DJ, Hardwell, in the DJ Booth during his set.

Hakkasan Hardwell and Jay Sean
Hardwell and Jay Sean
Photo courtesy of Hakkasan

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